Herrera’s good form sparks interest from Barcelona

Ander Herrera has been in inspired form for Manchester United of late, to such an extent he has reportedly caught the eye of Barcelona.

The uncapped Spaniard was initially a target for United when David Moyes was in charge, but the Scot was unable to force through a deal for his signature. Interest in the player continued even after the former Everton coach was dismissed from his post at Old Trafford, and he eventually joined the Premier League giants last summer for a fee in the region of £28million.

Herrera started just six of the Reds opening 25 league matches, but he has now started their last six and scored twice in the 3-1 win over Aston Villa on Saturday as Louis van Gaal’s side look to cement a place in the top-four which would return them to the UEFA Champions League next season. Unfortunately for United, though, it appears as his form hasn’t gone unnoticed in his homeland.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Luis Enrique has identified the former Athletic Bilbao ace as a potential successor to the legendary Xavi in the Barca midfield. The 35-year-old progressed through the youth system at the Camp Nou to become one of their all-time greatest players, but he will call time on life at his boyhood club when he heads to Qatar and Al-Sadd in the summer.

If the current La Liga leaders were to firm up their interest in Herrera, it could pose him with a hugely difficult decision to make. The 25-year-old has settled at United and in Manchester, but a move to Catalonia would undoubtedly enhance his chances of breaking into Spain’s side. He is, however, under contract at Old Trafford until 2018, and only a huge fee would convince his club to sell.

Meanwhile, Herrera’s compatriot and club team-mate, Juan Mata, is another player who has recently stamped his authority on van Gaal’s side. The former Chelsea star has also been linked with a summer transfer, with reports earlier this week claiming Tottenham Hotspur were lining up an £18.3million bid. However, chances are both Spaniards will remain in Manchester next season.